Surveillance of Mental Health Patients in the Emergency Department

Abstract

Mental health screening is an important parameter to measure and treat in the emergency department. Though it may not be as acute or life and limb threatening as other illnesses, it may pose danger to the patient if risk assessment is not done adequately that can lead to mortality and morbidity. Recognition of common mental health disorders in the emergency department is important and early, quick screening methods must be applied to assess the severity and improve recognition. A quick treatment method must also be applied and proper disposition and referral system must be applied for the patient to get adequate help they need.